From: "Phil Rembleski" <PHIl@rescuechurchofchrist.org>

To: "1111RESCUEMEMBERS"

Cc:

Sent: Tue, Dec 17, 2024 at 5:15 AM

Subject: 12-17-24 THOUGHTS

12-17-24   THOUGHTS                                                

We see a part of FELLOWSHIP  here as Paul says he gains comfort from the behavior of brethren he loves.  Their faith and firm standing in the Lord brought joy to him.  Prayer for these was continual.  From the comfort and joy he received from these, he encouraged them to abound in love for each other more and more, and for all people.  The establishment of hearts was important!  Walking in holiness before God, and excelling was encouragement.  

1Thes 3:7-13    for this reason, brethren, in all our distress and affliction we were comforted about you through your faith;  8  for now  we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.  9  For what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account, 10  as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith? 11   Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; 12  and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; 13  so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.
1Thes 4:1   Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more.

My Prayer:
Strengthen us, O God,  that we may please You in all.  We confess our weakness and ask for You to complete what is lacking in our faith.  Please, Father, establish our hearts before You for your pleasing.  Revive us, O God, and awaken us to an excelling in our walk as we draw nearer to You each day.   In the name of Jesus,   Amen.